Farewell from Kieran Wong

Kieran Wong , 6 September 2018

As ACA National President and WA Branch President Kieran Wong steps away from his leadership roles he looks to the future for the ACA. We thank him for all his passion and hard work.

It is with sadness that I am writing with news that I have decided not to re-nominate for the roles of ACA National President and ACA – WA President. My decision was not easy and was prompted by the need to improve the balance between a demanding work schedule and family life. I am sure that this is a challenge understood by many of our members.

At the same time, I am delighted to announce that two passionate and talented members will take on these key roles. In Western Australia, Malcolm Jones has nominated to become WA President, while ACA – SA President, John Held, will step into the role of National President. Malcolm was previously the Vice President of the ACA – WA, a longstanding member of the WA committee and a great advocate for our profession and the ACA in Western Australia. John has been a committed branch President for several years, and brings a focus on research, communication, and building and supporting the architectural community, along with his role as Deputy Chair of the Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF). I wish Malcolm and John well in their new positions, and look forward to working with them in the future.

It has been a great privilege to be involved with the ACA over the past few years, and much of my enjoyment has come from the network of relationships, personal and professional, that I have made along the way. The ACA is an organisation of the highest ethical and professional standards, as evidenced by our incredible staff and volunteer committee members. Our continued membership growth and successful advocacy is testament to the commitment of these people.

I am proud of the work we are doing to deliver on the ambitious actions set out in our most recent Strategic Plan. In particular, I look forward to the appointment of our first CEO, and the expanded influence that this role will bring; along with the positive member benefits that will be enhanced as we roll out a refreshed digital engagement platform.

The ACA has a bright future as a growing member led organisation, and I have been honoured to serve in roles at a branch and national level for several years. The ACA can point to many achievements – our advocacy for members, our suite of tools, contracts and resources developed in response to member demand, our strong emphasis on addressing local business challenges, and our networking focus, which has allowed members to connect and build relationships across the practice spectrum.

Thank you for your support and I wish you well now and in the future in the business of architecture.